Benefits of Living in Tampa, FL | Hillsborough County

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Tampa, located in Hillsborough County, Florida has been a popular place to live for years. In 2012, Parenting Magazine named it one of the best cities to live in for families. Here's what this city has to offer and why you may way to consider renting an apartment in it!

One of the reasons Tampa is popular is due to the many attractions that are in and nearby the city. They kick off our list:

#1: Disney Parks

Tampa, Florida is approximately an hour and a half drive from popular Disney Parks such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and numerous others. Florida residents get special discounts to all Disney parks.

#2: The Florida Aquarium

Located in Downtown Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is a large aquarium that measures 250,000 square feet. Visitors often spend hours in the Aquarium, as it has millions of gallons of water that is filled with a wide range of and fish. Guests can gaze at the Aquarium’s alligators, river otters, sea dragons, and others.

#3: Bush Gardens Africa

Bush Gardens Africa is among the top theme parks in Florida. It offers an African theme featuring African animals and wildlife. Plus, the park has rides and shows for the kid in all of us - young and old.

Did you know ... Tampa was recently awarded the distinction “Top Arts Destination” by American Style Magazine? The art and culture in the city is another offering that makes it an attractive place to live.

#4: The city is filled with eclectic museums.

Tampa Museum of Art - This museum features contemporary and modern art.

Henry B. Plant Museum - Guests love this museum because of the unique history it has - it was once a luxury hotel.

Museum of Science and Industry - This museum has the largest science center in the southeastern United States

Tampa has many large companies that help keep the economy strong. OSI Restaurant Partners, WellCare Health Plans, DUKE Engery, and Raymond James Financial are just a few. Overall, Tampa has a great amount of small business too, such as retail, sporting, and tourism stores that contribute, too. Then there are real estate and trading agencies that also play their part. There are a lot of jobs, for a lot of people. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of June 2013, the unemployment rate in Tampa was 7 percent, as opposed to the national unemployment rate of 7.6 percent, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

#11. Cost of Living

The cost of living in Tampa, Florida is quite fair, especially compared to cities such as New York City and Miami. In fact, Tampa’s Rent Index is 66.26% lower than NYC. Its Groceries Index is 25.51% less and its Restaurants Index is 35.91% less, according to the database Numbeo.

#12. Tampa offers many great apartment rentals that are comfortable, clean, safe, and affordable.

Garden Communities of Florida offers apartment rentals in Brevard County and Hillsborough County Florida. Whether you are looking for 1, 2, or 3 bedroom apartments, or luxury apartment rentals, your ideal location is waiting at Garden Communities. Our properties offer residents access to extensive shopping, entertainment, the best schools in the area and recreational activities for all ages.